Domestic Violence Protective Orders in Frisco, TX

Unfortunately, domestic violence exists in our society and will probably continue to exist. The Texas Family Code authorizes courts to issue domestic violence protective orders in Frisco, McKinney, and Dallas, TX in situations that involve actual or threatened violence. To obtain a protective order, the applicant must sign an affidavit that states the facts related to the threats and/or injuries and the reasons the applicant fears there will be future improper behavior. If the affidavit is sufficient, the judge can sign an order requiring the perpetrator to stay away from the victim, including orders that the perpetrator not come within a given distance of the victim’s house, automobile, place of work, etc.

After the perpetrator has been served with a copy of the domestic violence protective order, a hearing will be held. At the hearing, the judge will consider the evidence offered by the parties and decide whether the protective order should be continued or terminated.

The District Attorney’s office also has authority to seek a domestic violence protective orders in Frisco, McKinney, and Dallas, TX. That type of order is different from the form described above.

Domestic Violence Personal Safety Plan

Although it is important to know that there are remedies available through the courts in domestic violence situations, the first concern of a potential victim involves how to handle the confrontation and potential violence. The following are suggestions in formulating plans to preserve one’s personal safety.

A word of caution – make the plan and arrangements NOW – there will be no time to do it during a confrontation.

Safety During An Explosive Incident

If an argument seems unavoidable, try to have it in a room or area where there is an exit you can reach. Try to stay away from the bathroom, garage, and kitchen. Try to stay away from weapons, or any place where weapons might be available.

Practice how to get out of your home safely. Identify which doors, windows, elevator, or stairwell would be best to use in an emergency.

Have a packed bag ready and keep it at a friend’s or relative’s house so you can leave quickly.

Identify friends or neighbors you can talk to about the violence, and ask them to call 911 if they hear a disturbance coming from your house.

Figure out a code word you can use with your children, friends, and family to let them know when to call the police.

Plan where you will go if you have to leave home (even if you don’t think you will need to do it).

Use your own judgment and feelings. If the situation is dangerous, consider giving the abuser what he or she wants to calm him or her down.

You have the right to protect yourself until you are out of danger.

Always remember – You don’t deserve be hit or threatened.

Safety When Preparing To Leave

Open a bank account and get a credit card in your own name.

Get your own post office box so that you can receive mail and checks.

Leave money, an extra set of keys, copies of important papers, extra medicine and clothes with someone you trust so you can leave quickly.

Know ahead of time who you can stay with or turn to if you need to borrow money.

Call the Center for Battered Women for help in safety planning.

Keep the Center for Battered Women’s Hot Line number and some change with you for emergency calls. Using a calling card is not safe.

Remember – Leaving a controlling person is the most dangerous time.

Safety In Your Home – After You Have Separated

Change the locks on the doors as soon as possible. Buy additional locks for your windows and patio doors.

Talk to your children about what they should do if you are not with them.

Advise your children’s school or daycare teachers of who has permission to pick up your children from school.

Tell your neighbors and landlord that your partner no longer lives with you and that they should call the police if they see your partner near your home or car.

Never call your partner from your home. If he or she has caller ID, it will be easy to locate you.

Safety With A Domestic Violence Protective Order

Keep your protective order with you at all times. When you change your purse or wallet, it should be the FIRST thing that is moved.